Recommended Adapter To Use 4-Way on Vehicle With 7-Way On Utility Trailer

Question:

I have a 6 x 10 utility trailer with electric brakes. I have two vehicles that Id like to tow it with. One has brake controller and round 7 pin connector. The other vehicle does not have brake controller and has the four pin flat connector. When I tow the trailer in the vehicle with no controller and four pin connector, Id just like to tow the trailer without using the trailer brakes. So, my question is can I bypass the trailer brakes, and if so, what adapter do I need to use to plug in the round 7 pin connector to my four pin flat connector on the second vehicle?

asked by: Buster

Expert Reply:

You may want to check with the authorities to make sure you can tow a trailer that has brakes without the use of a brake controller in the vehicle. Towing a trailer with inactive brakes can create a dangerous situation. I recommend using a brake controller in the second vehicle to safely tow your trailer with brakes.

You can easily install a brake controller and the wiring needed to let you use the 7-way connector on the trailer for both vehicles. You can install an adapter that has both the 4-way and the 7-way connector on your vehicle with the 4-way. This is part # 37185. You can just attach the white ground wire and tape off the remaining 3 wires if you just want the running lights, turn signals, and brake lights. You will want to use a circuit tester like part # PTW2993 to make sure you match the wires correctly.

If you decide you want to install a brake controller on your second vehicle I recommend the Prodigy P2, part # 90885. To install the wiring for the brake controller you would also need part # ETBC7 instead of the # 37185.